MSc Biotechnology

Program Overview

This MSc in Biotechnology aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge for a successful career in biotechnology. Through tutorials, lectures, assignments and a research project, the course focuses on the development and application of biological processes in research, commercial and industrial settings. The programme is suitable for applicants who have a primary degree in Biological Sciences and wish to develop a career in a sector of high employment.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This part-time, postgraduate Endodontology course is designed for busy dental practitioners who want to combine home study with treating patients under the direct clinical supervision of experienced consultants and specialists. It has evolved from the University's successful three-year MSc program. The course aims to develop skills in:

• Thorough case assessment and record taking
• Treatment planning and case selection
• Working under magnification
• Contemporary techniques for cleaning and shaping canals
• Irrigation and intracanal medication
• 3-dimensional obturation
• Restoration of the endodontically-treated tooth
• Non-surgical re-treatments

Outline:

The course is delivered over two years and includes a blend of online and in-person learning.

• Year 1:
• Compulsory Modules:
• Utilising the Evidence Base:
This module focuses on developing strategies for systematic searching of electronic databases, communication skills, and accurate citation and referencing in reports.
• Research Strategy: This module covers skills in gathering and appraising scientific studies, developing focused research questions, and creating a research proposal.
• Clinical Endodontology 1: This module introduces the practical skills needed for safe endodontic practice, including patient examination and treatment planning.
• Clinical Endodontology 2: This module builds upon the skills and knowledge acquired in previous academic study to deliver safe and appropriate periodontal treatment in a primary dental care environment.
• Year 2:
Students will assess, undertake, and ultimately lead in clinical treatment.

Assessment:

Assessment methods include:

• Direct Observations of Procedural Skills (DOPS): This involves direct observation of students' clinical skills while treating patients.
• Coursework: This includes written assignments, practical assessments, and clinical case assessments.
• Presentations: Students will prepare and lead presentations on academic aspects of the course.
• Directed Reading: Students will engage in directed reading to deepen their understanding of the subject matter.
• Case-Based Discussions: Students will participate in case-based discussions to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Written Examinations: These assess students' understanding of the theoretical concepts covered in the course.
• Critical Essays: These require students to analyze and critically evaluate specific topics related to endodontology.

Teaching:

The program is delivered by experienced clinicians and educators.

• Faculty:
• Dr Shalini Kanagasingam:
A highly experienced endodontic surgeon and course leader.
• Dr Neil Cook: Lecturer in Research Methods – Online Learning.
• Dr Rose Thomas: Senior Clinical Teacher in Endodontology.
• Dr Fadi Barrak: Clinical Lead in (Clinical) Implantology.
• Dr Flavio Pisani: Senior Clinical Lecturer in Periodontology.
• Professor Kathryn Taylor: Chair in Oral Surgery.
• Dr Marta Krysmann: Senior Lecturer.
• Teaching Methods:
• Plenary Lectures:
These provide a comprehensive overview of the subject matter.
• Practical Sessions: These allow students to practice their skills in a controlled environment using phantom heads and other training aids.

Other:

• The course is delivered in conjunction with governing dental bodies, ensuring that the curriculum facilitates the development of transferable skills that can be applied to clinical practice.
• The course is only available to UK students.
• The course is based in the School of Medicine and Dentistry.
• Postgraduate qualifications in dentistry are not regulated by the General Dental Council in the UK.

Tuition Fees: 2024/25 UK Part-time £19,250 per year